By boat, helicopter or private plane, traveling to Catalina Island is part of the adventure. Unless you are lying your own plane or chartering your own yacht, you will be on a ferry or helicopter to get you to Catalina. The Catalina Express operates year round ferry service from the ports of Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point. The Newport Flyer operates for most of the year from Newport Beach. Avalon and Two Harbors are the only points of contact between the mainland of California and Catalina Island for passenger boat service.

PlanNING IS KEY

• Boats: Catalina Express & the Newport Flyer
• Helicopters: Island Express
• Private planes, small craft: Airport in the Sky
• Drive yourself: NO, there are no bridges or roads to Catalina, it is a true island
• Documents: Bring photo ID and credit cards, no passport required

You must book in advance to avoid frustration or complete disappointment. Getting to the island is your first and most important step and secures all your other adventures on Catalina Island. If you plan to stay the night getting your hotel room is something you need to do simultaneously with the transportation to the island. Ask the hotel if they have any discounts or at a minimum can they bundle your transportation into the booking. Remember to book your guided golf cart tour for the perfect introduction to the town. See Avalon through the eyes of a local and get the inside scoop for a better island experience.

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